Trailblazers of the Cigar Industry: How Women Are Redefining Tradition

Let me say this: the cigar industry, long viewed as a male-dominated domain, is undergoing a transformation. And at the forefront of this change are a group of remarkable women. These trailblazers are not just participants; they are architects of change, builders of legacy, and creators of opportunity. Their stories exemplify resilience, innovation, and leadership, reshaping the way we think about cigars and the culture that surrounds them. Let’s take a closer look at five extraordinary women who are redefining tradition and leading the way for a more inclusive future.

Cynthia Fuente: The First Lady of Cigars

Cynthia Fuente, often referred to as the “First Lady of Cigars,” grew up immersed in the world of Arturo Fuente Cigars, a company her grandfather founded in 1912. From an early age, she learned the value of tradition, quality, and perseverance. Today, as Vice President of the company, she plays a pivotal role in preserving the Fuente legacy while championing community initiatives through the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation. Her leadership is a testament to the balance of business acumen and a deep commitment to giving back. Cynthia reminds us that tradition is not just about preserving the past—it’s about creating a future worth passing on.¹

Website and Social Media:

Website: https://arturofuente.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthiafuente/

Karen Berger: The Queen of Cigars

Karen Berger’s journey is a story of resilience and innovation. She began her career as a young roller in Estelí, Nicaragua, where her skill and dedication set her apart. After the untimely passing of her husband, Don Kiki Berger, Karen took the reins of the business, transforming personal loss into an enduring symbol of strength. She launched her brand, K by Karen Berger, blending artistry and business strategy to create cigars renowned for their exceptional quality. Her success is a powerful example of how passion and perseverance can carve a path to greatness.²

Website and Social Media:

Website: https://karenbergercigars.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kbykarenberger/

Desiree Sylver: Redefining the Industry

Desiree Sylver, founder and CEO of Drunk Chicken Cigars, is a fresh and fearless voice in the cigar industry. Established in 2019, her brand brings a modern twist to cigar culture with bold blends and creative branding that resonate with a new generation of cigar enthusiasts. As an African-American woman in a predominantly male field, Desiree is breaking barriers and setting an example for others to follow. Her unique perspective and innovative approach are a reminder that the cigar industry thrives when it embraces diversity and new ideas.³

Website and Social Media:

Website: https://drunkchickencigars.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drunkchickencigars/

María Sierra: A Master of Craftsmanship

María Sierra was one of the first women trained as a cigar roller at Cuba’s prestigious El Laguito factory, home to the iconic Cohiba brand. Her 32-year tenure there earned her the highest rank of Category 9 roller. After moving to the U.S., María continued her legacy at El Titan de Bronze in Miami, crafting cigars like the La Palina Goldie series. Her artistry set a gold standard for excellence, proving that women have long been integral to the craftsmanship of premium cigars. María’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the artistry and dedication that define this industry.⁴

Lissette Perez-Carrillo: Strategic Visionary

Lissette Perez-Carrillo, co-owner of E.P. Carrillo Cigars, has played a pivotal role in modernizing her family’s brand. With her background in law and her strategic acumen, Lissette has helped the company expand its global reach and earn accolades like Cigar Aficionado’s Cigar of the Year in 2020 for the E.P. Carrillo Pledge. Her leadership reflects a perfect balance of honoring tradition while embracing innovation, ensuring her family’s legacy remains relevant in a competitive market.⁵

Website and Social Media:

Website: https://epcarrillo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epcarrillo_cigars/

The Legacy of These Trailblazers

These women—Cynthia, Karen, Desiree, María, and Lissette—are not just contributors to an industry. They are innovators, leaders, and visionaries who have broken barriers and set new standards. Cynthia Fuente exemplifies the importance of tradition and philanthropy. Karen Berger turned tragedy into triumph, building a brand that symbolizes resilience. Desiree Sylver introduced a bold, fresh perspective, connecting with a modern audience. María Sierra’s craftsmanship set a benchmark for excellence, inspiring generations. And Lissette Perez-Carrillo’s strategic brilliance has propelled her family’s brand into a new era of global success.

These women remind us that the cigar industry thrives when it evolves. Their stories are a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. They teach us that tradition isn’t about staying in place—it’s about building on a foundation, expanding possibilities, and redefining what’s next. That, my friends, is the future of the cigar industry. And with leaders like these, the future is in exceptional hands.

—

References:

1. “Cynthia Fuente,” Arturo Fuente Cigars. https://arturofuente.com/

2. “Karen Berger: Tobacco Businesswoman of the Year,” Tobacco Business. https://karenbergercigars.com/

3. “Meet the Team: Desiree Sylver,” Drunk Chicken Cigars. https://drunkchickencigars.com/

4. “Master Cigar Roller María Sierra,” Cigar Aficionado. https://www.cigaraficionado.com/

5. “E.P. Carrillo,” E.P. Carrillo Cigars. https://epcarrillo.com/